Russia, China expected to veto UN resolution on Strait of Hormuz
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- Russia and China expected to block UN resolution on Strait of Hormuz, diplomats say.
Russia and China are expected to veto a Gulf-backed draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, according to diplomatic sources.
The resolution, backed by the United States, Bahrain, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members, focuses on maintaining safe maritime passage through the strategically vital waterway, which is a major route for global oil shipments.
Diplomatic sources say the draft has broad support among several council members but faces strong opposition from Russia and China, both of whom hold veto power as permanent members of the Security Council.
According to diplomats familiar with the discussions, Moscow and Beijing object to language in the draft that could be interpreted as paving the way for future sanctions on Iran. They also argue that the text does not explicitly address responsibility for recent hostilities involving the United States and 'Israel', which they say contributed to the wider escalation in the region.
The resolution has not yet been formally put to a vote, but it could be tabled in the coming days depending on ongoing negotiations among council members.
Previous attempts to pass similar measures related to the Strait of Hormuz have also been blocked by Russia and China, highlighting deep divisions within the Security Council over how to address maritime security and regional tensions.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping chokepoints, with a significant portion of global oil trade passing through it.
